Cilantro Lime Rice

A Fresh and Flavorful Side Dish

Cilantro lime rice is one of those simple yet delicious side dishes that can take any meal to the next level. It has a bright, zesty flavor from fresh lime juice and a pop of freshness from chopped cilantro. This rice pairs perfectly with Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes like tacos, burritos, grilled meats, and even seafood. It’s light, fluffy, and full of flavor, making it a great alternative to plain white rice.

What makes this recipe special is how easy and budget-friendly it is. You only need a few simple ingredients—rice, lime, cilantro, and a little butter or oil. Plus, it’s a great way to add more flavor to your meals without spending extra money on fancy ingredients. If you’re someone who loves fresh and citrusy flavors, this dish is going to be a new favorite in your home!

Whether I’m making a quick weeknight meal or preparing a big spread for family and friends, this rice always fits right in. It’s also a great make-ahead dish since it reheats well. I often meal-prep a big batch and use it throughout the week for lunches or easy dinners. The best part? It’s a hit with both kids and adults!

About Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro lime rice is a light and flavorful rice dish made with white rice, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a touch of butter or oil. It’s commonly found in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, often served alongside burritos, tacos, and grilled meats.

What sets this rice apart from plain white or even seasoned rice is the fresh, zesty combination of lime and cilantro. Unlike traditional Mexican-style rice, which is often cooked with tomatoes and spices, cilantro lime rice keeps things simple and refreshing. The bright citrus flavor and herbal freshness make it a great side dish for heavier or spicy meals, as it balances out the flavors perfectly.

Why You’ll Love It

1. Super Easy to Make – This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps. You don’t need any fancy ingredients or cooking skills!
2. Perfect Side for Any Meal – Whether you’re making tacos, grilled chicken, or even a veggie bowl, this rice fits right in.
3. Fresh and Flavorful – The tangy lime juice and fresh cilantro add a burst of flavor, making it way more exciting than plain rice.
4. Budget-Friendly and Simple – You only need a few pantry staples, and it’s much cheaper than store-bought flavored rice.
5. Great for Meal Prep – This rice stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it all week long!

Ingredients

• For the Rice:
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (jasmine or basmati works great)
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• For the Flavor:
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

Ingredient Notes

• Rice Choice: I love using jasmine or basmati rice because they cook up light and fluffy. Short-grain rice tends to be stickier, so if you prefer that texture, go for it!
• Broth vs. Water: Cooking the rice in chicken broth instead of water gives it extra flavor, but plain water works just fine if you’re keeping it vegetarian.
• Lime Zest Matters: Don’t skip the zest! It adds a more intense lime flavor than just the juice alone.
• Fresh Cilantro is Key: Dried cilantro won’t give you the same fresh, herby taste, so always go for fresh leaves. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try parsley for a milder alternative.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Medium saucepan with lid – For cooking the rice to fluffy perfection. I love using a non-stick or stainless-steel saucepan for even cooking.
• Fine-mesh strainer – If you’re rinsing the rice, this helps remove excess starch for a fluffier texture.
• Citrus juicer or reamer – Makes squeezing fresh lime juice easier and ensures you get every last drop.
• Microplane or small grater – Perfect for zesting the lime without digging into the bitter white pith.
• Sharp knife and cutting board – For chopping the cilantro finely. A small chef’s knife works best.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – To fluff the rice and mix in the lime and cilantro evenly.

I love using a Zyliss citrus juicer because it gets out every bit of juice with minimal effort. For zesting, a Microplane grater is my go-to—it makes the process super quick and easy!

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice (optional, but recommended).

• Place the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps keep the rice light and fluffy.

2. Cook the rice. (15 minutes)

• In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water (or broth) to a boil. Add the rice, salt, and butter (or olive oil).

• Stir once, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Pro Tip: Try not to lift the lid too often while cooking—keeping the steam trapped helps the rice cook evenly!

3. Let the rice rest. (5 minutes)

• Once the rice is done, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This step allows the grains to firm up and makes fluffing easier.

4. Add the lime and cilantro.

• Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Then, stir in the lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro. Mix well to distribute the flavors evenly.

Pro Tip: If you like a stronger lime flavor, add a little extra zest or a squeeze of juice right before serving!

5. Serve and enjoy!

• Your cilantro lime rice is ready to serve! It’s perfect as a side dish for tacos, grilled chicken, or burrito bowls. Enjoy it warm and fresh!

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Rinse for the fluffiest rice! – If you’ve ever had rice turn out too sticky, rinsing it beforehand will solve that problem. It removes excess starch and keeps the grains separate.
• Use fresh lime juice, not bottled. – Fresh lime juice has a brighter, more natural flavor. Bottled lime juice can taste a little flat and artificial.
• Don’t overdo the cilantro. – Cilantro has a strong flavor, so start with a small amount and add more to taste. If you’re not a fan, you can swap it for parsley.
• Let the rice rest before stirring. – After cooking, letting the rice sit for a few minutes helps the grains firm up and absorb any remaining moisture. This makes fluffing easier!
• Make it in advance. – This rice reheats beautifully! Store leftovers in an airtight container and warm them up with a splash of water to bring back the moisture.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Swap the rice: Don’t have white rice? Use brown rice for a healthier option (just increase the cooking time), or try quinoa for extra protein.
• Make it dairy-free: Skip the butter and use olive oil or coconut oil instead.
• Add extra flavor: Stir in minced garlic, a pinch of cumin, or a little chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
• Turn it into a meal: Mix in black beans, grilled chicken, or sautéed veggies to turn this side dish into a hearty main course.
• No cilantro? No problem! If you’re not a cilantro fan, swap it out for fresh parsley or green onions for a different but equally delicious flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• With Mexican and Tex-Mex Dishes – This rice is the perfect side for tacos, burritos, enchiladas, or fajitas. I love pairing it with grilled shrimp tacos for a fresh and zesty combo!
• Alongside Grilled Meats – Serve it with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a simple yet flavorful meal. Try it with grilled lime-marinated chicken for extra zing!
• In a Burrito Bowl – Use it as the base for a homemade burrito bowl with black beans, avocado, salsa, and your favorite protein.
• With a Fresh Salad – Pair it with a crunchy slaw or a simple cucumber and tomato salad for a light, refreshing side.
• As a Meal Prep Staple – I love making a big batch and using it throughout the week for quick lunches or to round out a dinner. It’s a great way to keep meals exciting without extra effort!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Let the rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cilantro lime rice for up to 3 months! Just portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Lay it flat for easier storage.
• Reheating on the Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness, then warm it over low heat while stirring occasionally.
• Reheating in the Microwave: Cover the rice with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. I like adding a little extra lime juice after reheating to bring back the fresh flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Brown rice works great, but it takes longer to cook—usually around 40–45 minutes. Just be sure to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

How do I prevent my rice from getting mushy?

The key is using the right water-to-rice ratio and not stirring too much while it cooks. Also, let the rice rest for a few minutes before fluffing it with a fork.

What if I don’t like cilantro?

No problem! You can swap cilantro for fresh parsley or green onions. If you still want a herby flavor without the strong taste of cilantro, try using a mix of parsley and a little fresh basil.

Can I make this rice in a rice cooker?

Absolutely! Just cook your rice as usual, then stir in the lime juice, zest, and cilantro after it’s done. No need to adjust the liquid ratio!

What dishes go best with cilantro lime rice?

This rice pairs beautifully with Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes like tacos, fajitas, and burrito bowls. It’s also great with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a simple veggie stir-fry.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Cilantro lime rice stores well in the fridge for up to four days. Just reheat it with a splash of water or broth to bring back the moisture.

---

I’d love to hear how this cilantro lime rice turns out for you! Do you like it extra limey or with a little spice? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to share your favorite way to serve it!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me (@tasiahub_) or use the hashtag (#tasiahub). I’d love to see your creations!